Cuban Nata Cake with Mango, Pineapple, and Coconut

Cuban Nata Cake with Mango, Pineapple, and Coconut

This Cuban Nata Cake is a rich, creamy dessert perfect for special occasions. Soaked in a luxurious blend of condensed and evaporated milk, this cake is elevated with tropical flavors of mango, coconut, and pineapple. A hint of rum adds a festive touch, making this cake a true celebration of Cuban culinary traditions. The cake is finished with whipped cream, toasted coconut, and fresh fruit, creating a delightful dessert that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Portions:8
(including chilling time) 2 hours
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Equipment

  • 20cm springform cake tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • spatula
  • Sieve
  • Pastry brush
  • blender or food processor
  • wire rack
  • Palette knife or spatula
  • Cling film

Ingredients

  • For the Cake:
  • 210 g self-raising flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 325 ml whipping cream
  • 3 medium eggs
  • 335 g caster sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 ripe mango
  • 375 ml condensed milk
  • 410 ml evaporated milk
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 30 g cornflour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 200 ml coconut milk
  • 25 ml white rum optional
  • To Decorate:
  • 300 ml whipping cream
  • 100 g toasted coconut
  • ¼ pineapple peeled, cored, and cut into cubes (or a small can of pineapple chunks)
  • 1 ripe mango peeled, stoned, and cut into 2.5cm cubes

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cake Batter:
  • Preheat the oven to 170°C/Gas Mark 3.
  • Grease and flour a 20cm springform cake tin.
  • Sift the self-raising flour and salt into a large mixing bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the 325ml of whipping cream until it holds soft peaks, then refrigerate.
  • Using an electric mixer, whisk the eggs, caster sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has tripled in volume.
  • Gently fold the whipped cream into the egg mixture using a large metal spoon, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
  • Gradually fold in the sifted flour mixture, incorporating it gently to maintain the batter’s volume.
  • The mixture will be thick.
  • Transfer the batter to the prepared cake tin and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when pressed gently.
  • Cool the cake in the tin for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prepare the Filling:
  • Peel and stone the mango, then purée the flesh in a blender or food processor until smooth.
  • In a pan, combine the mango purée, condensed milk, and evaporated milk.
  • Bring the mixture slowly to a boil.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the cornflour and vanilla extract to form a smooth paste.
  • Gradually pour the boiled mango mixture over the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to combine.
  • Return the mixture to the pan and bring it back to the boil, whisking continuously until it thickens.
  • Transfer the filling to a clean bowl, cover the surface with cling film to prevent a skin from forming, and leave to cool.
  • Once cool, refrigerate until needed.
  • Assemble the Cake:
  • Mix the coconut milk with the white rum (if using).
  • Once the cake is fully cooled, cut it horizontally into 3 layers.
  • Place the top layer cut-side up on a cake card or plate.
  • Using a pastry brush, soak the layer with the coconut milk mixture.
  • Remove the filling from the fridge and gently whisk to soften.
  • Spread a third of the filling over the soaked cake layer.
  • Place the middle layer of sponge on top, soak with more coconut milk, and spread with another third of the filling.
  • Finally, place the bottom layer of cake on top, pressing lightly to level it.
  • Brush the top with the remaining coconut milk.
  • Refrigerate the assembled cake for 30 minutes to firm up.
  • Decorate the Cake:
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk the remaining filling with the whipping cream until it holds its shape.
  • Spoon a generous dollop of the cream on top of the cake and use the back of the spoon to create a well in the center.
  • Coat the sides of the cake with the remaining cream, smoothing it with a palette knife or spatula.
  • Press the toasted coconut around the sides of the cake for added texture and flavor.
  • Arrange the pineapple and mango cubes in the well on top of the cake.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Serving Suggestion:

Serve this Cuban Nata Cake as the centerpiece of a celebration, accompanied by a cup of Cuban coffee or a shot of rum for a true taste of the Caribbean.

Wine Recommendation:

Pair with a sweet dessert wine like Moscato or a tropical cocktail such as a Piña Colada.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 480 kcal | Carbohydrates: 60 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 24 g | Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 45 g | Salt: 0.3 mg
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Course Cake / Dessert / Fruit
Cuisine Cuban
Diets Vegetarian